"...Mew?"

Hardship spanning weeks, or arguably even months, had led Ash, Peeks, and Rosemary to the heart of the Tree of Beginning. Heroism and villainy. Pain and hope. Cowardice and courage. Strife and understanding. Crisis of character, and self-actualization. Contrasting elements of their journey had torn them apart, just as they eventually brought them to stand in the same place, because above all, they loved one another.

But, that still left one glaring question — Why were they drawn to the site of one of Kanto's greatest wars that never truly came to be?

The answer, most likely, was floating directly above them in the form of a pale, short-furred feline. The oldest denizen of Rota; the mythical Mew.

"Mew~." The watcher of many eras gone by tilted her head, extending the two artifacts she held in her paws; Sir Aaron's legendary staff, and his gloves strewn over its wooden handle.

"Sir Aaron's staff and gloves…" Ash acknowledged, as the pieces came together in his head. "So, you did take the staff from Cameran Palace! You brought it here in anticipation of us, didn't you…?"

Mew simply nodded.

~You… did?~ Rosa blinked, holding her paw to her muzzle in a show of confusion. ~But, why? You told me that I'd figure out who I am, soon. Why I've been feeling all the strange feelings I have… my dreams. What does this tree, and this thing have to do with me?~

To answer her, Mew simply pushed the staff towards Rosa and Ash, once more.

"Well… I guess this is our answer, somehow," Ash said, turning to his Lucario with a shrug and a smile. "Mew wants us to take it. So, let's do it!"

~I felt something strange coming from that thing, when I first saw it,~ Rosa admitted. ~I felt angry, and afraid. I don't even know what I was upset about, but I couldn't stand it!~

Ash's expression softened into a melancholic smile. "I… think I know why. But, that's something that I think we should discover together." He winked, trying to put his daughter at ease.

In anticipation of what was to come, Peeks hopped down from Ash's shoulder, giving his trainer and his teammate breadth to do as they'd been told. His ears stood up, as he too, was curious.

Rosemary took a deep breath. If there was anyone in the world she trusted to take a leap forward with, it was Ash. He had, after all, welcomed her into the world and all its joys and trials.

What was one more?

~Alright. Let's do it, Pa.~ Rosemary reached out towards the instrument. In tandem with her father and trainer, she gripped the wooden handle.

Both Ash and Rosemary's eyes shot open. A strange sensation assaulted them. Then, the staff's crown jewel embraced them in a blinding light.

A black void, with touches and waves of chromatic blue isolated the two, together. Standing in the middle of seeming nothingness, Ash and Rosemary tried to gain a bearing on their surroundings. While they were there, in essence, though, neither could move, nor could they even look away from the seeming nothingness they both occupied. They couldn't even turn to one another.

They simply knew, by the other's familiar presence, that they were there.

Imagery and sounds began to flash before their eyes, without warning. Scenes that first felt like old film, then quickly became intimately familiar.

A man training by his lonesome in the wilderness. Twirling and parrying at thin air with his staff. With no training partner, it was lonely. But, discipline was a cornerstone of Aura. Until he found his one, he would persist and polish his craft. He'd bear the autumn bitterness brushing his cheek as a reminder that he had to become more in tune with himself.

A gruff, untrusting rarity in KanJoh. He'd been recruited from a far-off region to serve a great Queen. Despite his reservations towards human society, and anyone else as a whole, he thirsted for a purpose. A higher calling to dedicate himself to that he'd never known. This led him to accept one of the crown's emissaries beckoning him to the east, arriving by boat. He spent many days at sea, wondering what lay ahead. If he would even make it to his destination.

Memories were dusted off, akin to an old photo album. Sepia, blurred images that felt like nagging feelings, in the past, became crystal clear.

"Lucario. From now on, this house is going to be your new home. And the place where you train."

"Yes."

"I'll teach you everything I know so that you can also be a user of Aura!"

"Thank you."

"Yes! The Aura is inside. And soon, one day, you will learn to trust it."

The day they'd been introduced to one another. The day Lucario had met his Master.

Their nigh-endless training, in the courtyard, and in the woods. With other fellow castle guardsmen, and on their lonesome. An unpolished Pokémon hardened himself into a seasoned warrior. A kind knight refined his own skills with his new companion, in kind.

Their days surveying the skies and grounds, on the back of Aaron's trusty Pidgeot; a Magical Creature — nay, a Pokémon he now recalled he'd befriended as a proud, fledgling Pidgey. His keen eyes were just as capable as Aaron's. Sometimes even greater. That was always a reminder for Aaron that he had to further discipline himself. He was grateful for his friend's wisdom. He was grateful they could both pass it on to Lucario.

Days of joy.

Sharing a meal in the courtyard, after Queen Rin had sent Aaron to replenish himself. The look of total embarrassment on Lucario's face, as he was fed via utensils by his Master, of all people. Aaron being unable to contain his laughter, and Pidgeot following afterward.

Soaking in the hot springs, in northern Rota, despite Lucario's stubborn protests.

Days of learning.

Capturing a ne'er do well thief, attempting to rob an elderly couple with their ever-loyal Arcanine. They'd only done so successfully because of Aaron's advised patience and love for others. Lucario had felt humbled by his patience and wisdom, and vowed to observe it further.

Days of grief.

Aaron reluctantly insisting that Lucario stay behind, during meetings with other Kingdoms, after his brash demeanor had nearly thrown them into war. The self-loathing Lucario exhibited for his foolishness distancing himself from his Master. How could such a foolish creature deserve him?

The day he'd found his Master a traitor.

They day he'd been trapped in the very staff that was now bringing his life to light. The lingering bitterness that felt like days, but somehow extended over centuries.

The coming days where he was thrust into a distant future, and surrounded by strangers. People he swore he'd never allow himself to know. Swore he'd never known in the first place.

That Ash. That arrogant young man whose Pikachu had abandoned its Master.

That Ash. That kind, selfless, brash hero who would do anything for his friends.

That A… Aaron. A man he'd branded a Master, and then a traitor. A man who'd laid down his life selflessly for his Kingdom. A man who, perhaps foolishly, had stranded Lucario so that he wouldn't suffer the same fate, knowing he would do so in a heartbeat.

He knew that Lucario would, because it was his own first instinct. He'd died for him. He died with a smile on his face.

But, Lucario had done so, to save their Kingdom a second time. He'd faded into the Aura, and all but disappeared. That had been the end of their tale… Or, at least he would believe it to be.

That was where it ended, wasn't it? Then, why did they both experience a nagging feeling that there was more of a story to tell? Just a bit more, before the tale unfolding before them was complete?

A black nothingness, again, became their perspective. A distinctive loneliness, inside a shell. Faint noises outside, and whispers of concern. A familiar Aura that felt like home came and went in a blink.

Again, it resurfaced, summoning a budding feeling of warmth and excitement. That warmth cradled them, again and again. It whispered words that both realized they knew very well.

Promises — "We'll get stronger and stronger!"

Concerns — "I have to become stronger, and more responsible."

An overwhelming feeling to be one with the world again. Tiny paws jabbed and kicked, until cracks of blinding light filtered through that emptiness. It shattered completely.

They stared up at an indistinct face. It was blurry, until they adjusted to it. That face greeted them with the most glowing, loving smile.

"Welcome to the world, Riolu!"

The all-consuming light of the past started to fade, and with it, so did it in the present. The staff's glow slowly receded, leaving Ash and Rosemary back in the Tree of Beginning.

The staff still sat in their clutches, and the two jolted up, as if they'd woken from a deep sleep.

Peeks watched from nearby with curious eyes. "Pikapi…"

Mew floated at a distance, doing the same.

The Aura Guardians slowly lowered the staff, looking up to meet the other's gaze. They blinked slowly, trying to construct their words. With two lifetimes between them, they were hard to find.

~...At the onsen.~ the Lucario started. ~At the Fuchsia Gym. When you talked about failing to save someone…~

"...I meant you," the young man finished. "And when you said that that person would be happy they managed to protect me, instead…"

~I'm still glad,~ she said, smiling. Her eyelids fell to frame her hues in a heartfelt gaze.

"Aha, wow," He laughed, rubbing his eyes. "You never did stop being stubborn, did you?"

Tears pooled in both of their eyes, before they threw themselves into a crushing hug.

"I missed you…!" The male sobbed, burying his chin atop the Lucario's head. "I missed you so much."

She buried her muzzle into the crook of his neck. ~It's good to be back… Mas—ter.~ The last word was stuttered out with an awkward pause. She blinked away her tears.

"Are you really calling me that?" The male asked incredulously. "I don't like it."

~Is… Aaron better?~ She asked hesitantly.

"That depends," he replied. "Am I calling you Lucario, now?"

The other paused, then shook her head, hugging him more tightly. ~I don't like that. You gave me my name.~

"Wait…" The trainer pulled back, making a face. "Aaron me, or me, me?"

The Lucario stood upright with a lost, deadpan stare. ~...What.~

Peeks sighed, shaking his head. "Oh, for Arceus's sake…"

Mew giggled.

"Let's just settle on saying we're ourselves," Ash laughed, shaking his head. "Those're just… memories." His expression became stern again. "And, speaking of memories. I… guess I made the same mistake twice, huh. Sealing you in the staff to protect you from my sacrifice. Pushing Peeks to stay behind from our adventure," he gestured to the mouse.

"I'm repeating the mistake of taking troubles on my shoulders and pushing my partners away. I owe you both an apology. So, sorry, Peeks. And sorry, Rosa."

"You're darn right," Peeks huffed. "We did say we're past the stage of apologies… As long as we're at it, though, I made the mistake of assuming the worst of your actions. That was wrong."

~Just like I did,~ Rosemary volunteered. ~I remember the rift of time that separated me and you… I remember how bitter it made me. I don't wanna see you two suffer the same. Ever.~

As the three reflected and conceded to one another, a crimson and gray mane appeared from around the corner, peering into the heart of the tree. Meema watched from a distance, just in time to hear their private proceedings.

~I want a future that involves all of us,~ Rosemary professed.

"I… admit I could stand to admit my own faults more often," Peeks said sheepishly.

"What," Ash laughed, "you admit you're not perfect and all-knowing?"

"Don't push your luck," Peeks retorted, releasing some sparks from his cheeks.

"Hey, hey!" Ash protested, raising his hands. "I'm still injured, you know; that's a foul!" He regretted his words, when his partner's face turned sour. "...Er, too soon?"

"A little," Peeks pouted.

"Hey, hey. I'm okay with it! It means I get another cool scar to show off!" He grinned, gesturing to the large bandage on his cheek.

"Well, I can say one thing." Peeks said, smiling. "Past or present, it feels like my Ash is back."

Still watching from her comfortable distance, Meema absorbed the scene with wide, icy hues. For a seeming mutiny fracturing the Pack to end so amicably… ~I see. So, this is how a proper pack behaves. They listen to one another, without rank.~

~Hey, I'm… sorry about that, by the way,~ Rosa said. ~If I'd learned anything from my past life, maybe I could've prevented you or Peeks from being hurt, to begin with.~

"Man," Ash sighed. "Your sense of duty hasn't changed at all."

~It's just the same,~ she shook her head. ~I feel like I have to protect you. Like I have to fight evil, wherever I see it. It's deeper than anything you even taught me; I can feel it in my gut! But, maybe that did come from the sense of justice you taught me in the past… I certainly wasn't like this before I met you.~

"I don't know if I should apologize or say you're welcome," Ash shook his head. "Honestly, I've been struggling with those kinda thoughts, too. Riley tasked me with being a hero; being an Aura Guardian. It's been a cloud over my head, ever since things started happening on our journey. I feel… what's the word? Burdened. But, I really do want to help others! I hate seeing people and Pokémon be hurt."

~You and me both,~ Rosa agreed. ~I love our family. I wanna preserve it.~

"Ditto," Ash agreed.

"And me too," Peeks volunteered. "But, I also think that we can't let these thoughts become an obsession. We can't let them tear us away from our dream. Once we're Pokémon Masters, then we'll be strong enough to save anyone, without worrying about losing each other!"

"That's… it." Ash's eyes snapped wide open. "That's it!"

The Pokémon present turned their attention to it. Peeks spoke first. "What's it?"

Ash walked towards the giant crystalline structure in the middle of the room, setting the staff and gloves aside. "What you just said. That's why I want to become Champion!" He stared into his reflection in the gemstones. It was distorted by their many shapes and colors, but still, Ash felt he could see himself more clearly than he ever had. His hand tightened into a sure fist.

"I finally have my answer to Deidra's question."

Peeks smiled widely, and dashed over to his trainer, scaling his back to stand atop his shoulder. "I think that's a better answer than she could ever hope to hear."

~If that's what both of you want…~ Rosemary walked closer, standing beside her trainer; her father, and friend. ~Then I want to help you with the Pokémon League, and stand with you right until the end!~ Looking over after her loud declaration, she gave a lopsided smile, holding up an upturned paw. ~Maybe it's fate or something. Y'know?~

Ash shook his head. "I don't think much about things like fate. My life's full of crazy events like this. Prophecies, rare Pokémon, huge danger… I don't think it's all worth the headache of the 'why.' I'd rather just believe that I'm lucky enough to meet the Pokémon I do and be their friend, just by being myself!"

~In other words, you've had enough of thinking about being the center of the universe.~

"Right to the point, as usual."

~Well… It might have been your Aura that got my attention when I was an egg,~ Rosa said. ~But when you get down to it, I decided to hatch 'cause I felt loved by the guy holding the egg.~

"And Professor Oak could've given me to any trainer," Peeks added, "but I wouldn't have taken to anyone else the same way I have to you. I'm who I am now because of you."

"That… Sheesh." Ash bit his lip, wiping his eyes for perhaps the fifth time today. "Do you guys have to be so cheesy about it? I'm just glad that I got to have such great Pokémon! That's that."

"Now, who's talking about cheesy?" Peeks teased.

~Oh, by the way.~ Rosa looked up to Peeks. ~Good to see you again, 'Pidgeot.'~

"...Wait." Peeks backed up, standing upright on Ash's shoulder. "What? I'm… I was…?" His eyes turned to his trainer. The man who'd now lived two lifetimes, in a way, had known him in both.

It made his heart feel warm.

Ash felt that way, too, reaching to ruffle the top of his head. "What was it that the guard said, again, about a Pikachu learning to fly?" He laughed, scratching behind his best friend's ear.

"Riiight." Peeks snorted. "Like that'll ever happen."

"Ah…" Ash sighed contentedly. Only then did he look over to the other end of the room. "Meema!?" He exclaimed. "Damn, how long have you been here with us?"

Meema blinked, briefly considering her words. ~...Long enough, Leader.~

He walked over, carrying the staff and gloves in hand, and ruffled her mane. "Well, then I think we should find Noctowl and Staraptor and get out of here. I'm sure Ritchie's worried sick."

~Oh. They're waiting outside. They directed me to you, in the first place.~

Ash and the others did a double take. Where did that voice come from…?

"Mew!?" Ash exclaimed, attaching the voice to the eerie, but somehow endearing face.

~Yes, that was me.~ They answered simply, flying in a small lazy loop.

"You can talk…!? I mean, you're a Psychic-type, I guess," Ash answered his own question. "But hey, if you could do that, why didn't you until now?"

Mew tilted their bulbous head, and then laughed into their paws. ~For fun.~

Traversing the Tree of Beginning was far easier with a guide who knew its endless twists and turns like the back of their little paw. With Mew as their guide, Ash and his Pokémon avoided the awful crystal chasm, working through rocky tunnels and grassy forest paths and streams.

It was altogether a pleasant stroll, with Rosemary, Meema, and Peeks walking alongside Ash, and Staraptor and Noctowl flying leisurely just ahead of the group. Mew led them first and foremost, moving with playful flips and spins to keep themselves occupied.

"So, Mew." Ash spoke up, breaking the peaceful silence. "You brought that stuff to us because you saw this all coming, right? What in the world tipped you off to us?"

~I've felt a disturbance in the tree's Aura for just a blink… or, maybe it's been a while? It's hard for me to tell.~ Mew floated a bit more slowly, turning around to face Ash. ~It's been… maybe a couple of moon cycles. Four or five.~

"If I could guess," Ash replied, "you must've felt it when Rosa was born."

Mew nodded. ~I've been scouting for the source of it since then. At my own leisure, of course.~ When did the New Species ever take anything seriously? ~I think I spotted you lot more recently, actually. Before you evolved.~ She pointed at Rosa. ~I had a feeling you'd need a little nudge, sooner or later. Once the Tree of Beginning felt you coming this way, I fetched the staff!~

~I… guess it's a good thing I decided to come here after all,~ Rosa trailed off, rubbing her neck. ~Even if I could've been more graceful about it.~

Ash shrugged. "Hindsight is 20-20. If all this hadn't happened, who knows if we would've learned our lesson with everything, y'know? So, no need to worry!"

~Peeks was right,~ Rosa said, eyeing Ash. ~Ma has rubbed off on you.~

A short distance back, Peeks suddenly sneezed. "Chu!" He sniffled, shaking his head out. He swore he'd heard his name, up ahead from Ash and the others. He must've been talked about.

It was time for a conversation he'd been meaning to have himself, he thought. He lurked back closer to Meema, who'd kept him at a polite distance. "Hey, so… I think we should talk."

"If that's what we're doin'," Meema replied. She was back to slipping into her accent and vernacular that he'd only heard recently. "I got somethin' to tell ya. I'm… sorry for speakin' outta turn, Second-in-Command. I knew not what I was talkin' about."

"No, no!" Peeks shook his head. "You… you were right about me. Ash did try to leave me behind for a reason. I was a hypocrite, and that's why I blew up at you. It hit too close to home." He laughed to himself. What a moron he'd been. "I should thank you, actually, for helping to pull the wool off my eyes. I, erm… I'm sorry for the things I said about you."

"As long as we're admittin' our faults… You was right, too. 'Bout my antiquated views of family. Of our pack. I never questioned a thing, where I came from. Never had the room to."

"Well, you're with a different pack, now. A different family," Peeks replied, smiling. "You're allowed to tell me if I'm being a jerk. Speaking of… I'm also sorry for what I said about the way you talk. It's neat. You sound a lot more Unovan than you do through telepathy."

"You… much as I hate to admit it, had a point about me," Meema admitted. "Telepathy's different. Y'think through every word you send out. I try to sound my best, 'n most leader-like. 't was what I was s'posed to be. Back… before I left with Rura. 's important to give him a good image to live up to. Spell out everything for the humans who look out for us."

Peeks tilted his head. There were still pieces of Meema's past that were a complete mystery. But, she could reveal that at her own pace. Everyone had their own. "For what it's worth, I like the theatrical thing you do, too. But I hope you do that now because you want to."

"If I'm bein' honest, it's…" Meema paused. ~'Fun.' I rather like deliberating every word I speak.~

With mysteries settled and feuds quelled, the remainder of the walk to the bottom of the tree passed quickly and without incident. It wouldn't be long before Ritchie could be seen towards the burrow leading to the northern lands of Rota.

He sat on a boulder with Sparky, waving when he spotted the group. Furthermore, he was accompanied by Regice, Regirock, and Registeel, who stood dutifully and calm.

"Heyyy, Ritchie!" Ash waved back, laughing. He ran down the slope, just barely catching his bearings before sliding to a halt.

"Ash!" Ritchie grinned, hopping to his feet. "I see Peeks and Rosa are with you. Everything work out fine?"

Ash grinned too, as Peeks hopped atop his shoulder. He slung his opposite arm around Rosa's shoulder. "Everything's all sorted out!"

"Pika-Pikaaah!"

~It's like they say, right? All's well that ends well.~

"Well, I'm thrilled to hear it," Ritchie said. "Of course, I never really doubted you'd figure it out."

Ash smiled, before turning his attention to the three golems. "Hey, I see you guys are still hanging around! I never thought I'd see you all just… chilling."

"Well, when it comes down to it…" Ritchie smiled coolly, patting a friendly hand against Regirock. "You have to remember, they're still Pokémon."

"Uh-uhn." The strange golem beeped, followed by a series of sounds from the other two golems. With everything seemingly in order and under control, they started to stomp off, leaving the group behind to return to the Tree of Beginning.

"Looks like their work here is done," Ash laughed. "Oh, right! While we're at it, Mew. Thanks a lot for all your help!"

~And thank you for a much easier endeavor, this time around.~ Mew said, floating upright. ~It was hardly a problem at all.~

"Well it was certainly tough on us!" Peeks complained, pouting.

~...Oh. Whoopsies. I didn't think about that.~ Mew said, floating upside down.

Ash laughed. His shoulders slumped in exasperation. "The centuries haven't changed you a bit."

~Oh, they stop meaning much when you lose count of them.~

"Oy… Just thinking about that gives me a headache," Ash complained. He coughed into his hand, holding up his magical staff in a stiff, proper manner. "Well, Mew, may our paths meet again!" That was the sort of thing he would've said back in medieval times, wasn't it?

~They will,~ Mew simply replied. ~I will look forward to that day, Aura Guardian.~ That was the last exchange offered by the New Species, before they soared off towards their abode, before transforming into a Butterfree before their very eyes, and disappearing into the thick of the trees.

Ritchie watched the mythical Pokémon disappear, with a reverential smile on his face. "Pokémon really are incredible…" The brunet nodded towards the exit. "It looks like it's time for us to head back, though. I'm sure everyone's worried."

"Yeah. C'mon, you guys. Return!" Ash recalled his team, pardoning Rosemary and Peeks before walking into the narrow passageway that led to the outside world. Only the light at the far end of the tunnel illuminated their way forward. But, that was all they needed.

"Y'know, it's funny we say that," Ash thought aloud.

"Hm?" Ritchie hummed, begging for clarification.

"About worrying everyone, I mean. When you get down to it, this all kinda feels anti-climactic."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, this whole thing… really felt like a big ol' therapy session! No end of the world, no real danger… for the most part." He idly rubbed the bridge of his nose. He hadn't forgotten the incredible stunt he and Peeks had pulled off. Nor Rosa's contribution.

"It did make us stronger, don't get me wrong. But still… it's weird."

Ritchie tilted his head. "Are you… upset about that?"

"...Nah." Ash smiled, shaking his head. "I think I've had more than enough danger for one journey, already. If anything, I'm happy about it."

Queen Ilene sat on her throne in her throne room, accompanied by her attendant at her side. The familiar band of trainers and their Pokémon had called for her counsel, and so, they stood before her, relaying the events of days past. The sunbeams of midafternoon filtered through the high windows, casting royalty and subjects alike in dramatic shadows. Nary a speck of dust floated in the bright light; the castle was, as always, pristine.

"So, that's how it happened, then…" The queen hummed to herself, a smile pulling at her cherry lips. "Well, I'm quite glad that you're all in good health and spirits. Furthermore… I have to say, it's quite an amusing thought that the legendary heroes of old are standing right before us."

Ash and Rosemary stood at attention. They reflexively bowed their heads.

"And, as amusing as it is… It is also a great honor."

"Y-yes, Ma'am…! Um, Queen? Your Highness…?" Ash corrected himself, standing with a painfully stiff posture. "It's, um… my pleasure to make your acquaintance. Verily."

Peeks sighed, burying his face in his paw. "You don't have to sound just like him…"

"But, I am him," Ash muttered back to his partner.

Ilene giggled behind the back of her hand. "At ease, Guardian. We don't expect you to follow your legacy down to the last detail. Only for you to do your best."

"That's just it, though," the teenager huffed. He knelt down to one knee, bowing his head. "I'm sorry, but… Being a full-on Aura Guardian isn't me at all! I'm not stoic, or a loner who can just hide away from everyone. I'm impulsive, and I'm not proper! All of that just isn't who I am…"

Ash reached for his belt with his hand not clutching his staff. He held a Poké Ball in his palm. "I'm a Pokémon Trainer. But, I'm still grateful I have this gift, so it can help me be closer to my friends, and protect people when I need that power." He bowed his head, again. "I'm sorry to be a total letdown, compared to the legend."

"Well, you're certainly no knight when it comes to decorum," Lady Miriam hummed, with a stiff upper lip. "But, ultimately, you do have the same heart as your legacy."

"Rise, Hero. Please." Ilene demanded. Ash did as asked. "Sir Aaron was certainly a hero; one of the greatest. But, he was also one with flaws. A man who, as you know, had a great distance to breach before even he understood Pokémon. The world… has evolved since then. You, Sir Ash, have an evolved understanding of what it means to know and protect them, too. And no matter what your path is, you should know that the Aura is with you."

Ash held his hand over his heart, nodding. "Thank you, Queen Ilene."

She smiled sweetly. "And that applies to you as well, Lucario… Sorry. Sir Rosemary," Ilene corrected herself. "Cameran Palace wishes you all your best, and you're always welcome to return."

"I'd really love to," Ritchie volunteered. "Maybe in better circumstances, next time."

~Me, as well.~ Rosemary nodded. ~It'd be nice to catch up, without all the fuss.~

"Pika-chu!"

"Pi-kah!"

"And me, too!" Ash smiled. "But, before I go… there's something you should have." He held a hand out to Ritchie, who placed Sir Aaron's gloves in his palm. He stepped forth to the throne, extending the gloves and the staff. "Now that we used them, I'm sure you want them back."

"Thank you, Sir Ash… But, no." Queen Ilene shook her head. "Remember, that those are ultimately yours. You are Aaron. There may come a day where you'll need them."

Ash nodded sternly, holding up the staff in his grip. He stared into its crystalline core, smiling.

He really hoped that he wouldn't need it. But, it was better to be safe than sorry.

"Thank you. I'll hold onto them, no matter what!"

Five days had passed, since the initial incident at the Power Plant. Luckily for Dawn, that meant that she could sit in a fully lit room with company for somewhat longer intervals than before. More importantly, she could read, again.

Sitting up in her cot, she glanced through one of the poetry books she'd kept in her bag, idly committing the prose to memory… As much as she could right now, anyway. Occasionally, her head would start to feel heavy and she'd put it all down for a few minutes.

It was better than sitting in the dark.

It was also better than being stuck in her own head. Misty had a chair pulled up next to her, and was reading along with her. Dawn had been surprised, at first, that Misty expressed interest in poetry. She apparently used to read a lot of romance novels as a young girl.

When Misty asked if Dawn had done the same, she'd said that she didn't, at all. The prose was always more interesting to her than romance. Misty had reaffirmed, once more, that Ash had met his match in her. But, petty differences didn't stop them from reading together. Whenever Dawn's eyes got tired, Misty took over, reciting passages and commenting on them.

On the other end of the room, Delia was knitting what appeared to be a small sweater, while Brock sat on the couch next to her, running a brush through Ninetales's mane.

All eyes in the room turned to the creaking of its one door. Slowly and cautiously opening, before swinging all the way open.

"Hey, what do you know? It doesn't look like the inside of Rock Tunnel here, anymore." Ash stood in the doorway, bearing a cheeky grin to frame the bandage still on his face. Peeks sat atop his shoulder, as he was ought to. "I know you're enough to light up a room, Dawn, but that was getting ridiculous."

Misty snorted, shaking her head. "How long did you rehearse that one?"

"Been thinking on it for the past thirty-" Before Ash could finish his sentence, he was pulled into a crushing hug by his mother. Delia buried her face in her shoulder, sniffling.

"Running off before I could even see you…" Delia reached up to run a hand through his spiky hair. "Look at you. You still have your bandage on."

"I know…! I know." Ash sighed, returning the embrace. Some time ago, he would've been embarrassed. Not after being a parent, himself. "I'm sorry for worrying you, Mom. I'm sure you're furious."

Delia shook her head. "I was… But, your girlfriend had a few choice words for all of us." She smiled, releasing Ash to give him space. She looked him over. Pardoning some bandages, he looked to be okay. Moreover, he looked happy.

"You figured that out all on your own, huh?" Ash laughed, rubbing his neck.

"It wasn't hard. Neither of you are subtle… Oh! And I see my Peeks is back where he ought to be!"

"Pika-chuuu!" Peeks jumped into Delia's arms, accepting her quick embrace. She scratched under his chin just the way she knew he liked.

"You know it! We're best friends, again. Everything's on the up-and-up," Ash cheered.

~Hey, Pa! You're blocking the door.~ A familiar, raspy voice sounded in the minds of all present. Rosemary slipped by her father and grandmother, shuffling into the room. She meekly rubbed her neck.

"Rosa…!" Dawn exclaimed, sitting up in her cot.

Rosa's red hues started to tremble, as did her muzzle. Shaking her head, she sprinted over and threw herself at the Coordinator, burying her head in her lap.

"Hey, easy!" Ash scolded. "Dawn's still recovering, y'know." He laughed, walking over to sit by his daughter and girlfriend. Misty helpfully slid out of her seat, allowing them their space.

"Oh, no need to worry!" Dawn waved a hand, before running it across the top of Rosa's head. "It's been a few days. I'm not exactly made of paper and glass, y'know…. Owowowowow." She winced, as she felt a headache quickly return.

"You know that's when I worry the most," Ash tutted, as was customary. He reached over to brush her cheek with his thumb. "But, hey. I told you I'd bring our daughter back."

~Ma… Pa…~ Rosemary sniffled. She lifted her head, peering up at her two guardians. ~I'm… sorry for running off like that. I already talked to Pa about it, but I'm sure I had you worried.~

"Not at all." Dawn smiled, and opened her arms. "It's like I told Ash, when he left. I knew you would be okay. You've gotten so, so strong, in such a short time."

"You have no idea," Ash whistled.

Even as Ash said so, though, the Lucario threw herself into Dawn's embrace. ~I've… learned so much, in just a few days. Everything makes sense now. I have a lot to explain to you, too.~

"Well, now there's plenty of time to tell me all about it!" Dawn said, as she pulled Ash, too, into her embrace. Their family was once again whole. "I'm kind of sour that I missed it all…"

It was a lovely sight, certainly. Delia smiled bittersweetly, idly scratching under Peeks's chin.

"They've really grown into their own, haven't they…?" Brock asked, echoing Delia's thoughts.

She hummed thoughtfully. "My baby boy has a baby of his own… Oh! Ash, since you're back now. I think there's something that you and Rosemary should see."

"Huh? What is it?" Ash pulled back from the hug. Then, he gasped.

Atop a countertop near the door to Dawn's room, a huge wicker basket sat, loaded to the brim with gift cards and gift wrapped boxes of chocolate and assorted candies. Ash slowly walked over to the assortment, stepping around his friends. "What is all this…?"

Elegant stationery was stapled to the basket. It read 'Thank you, for going above and beyond.'

"You can thank your mother for that one," Brock said, with a degree of exasperation in his voice.

"Well, poor Dawn was sick and tired of eating hospital food, after you left. And I couldn't let my baby's girlfriend get by on that! So, I went over to a nearby restaurant to lend her a hand…"

"Meaning she walked in and asked to use their kitchen," Misty enunciated flatly. How Mrs. Ketchum managed to strong-arm her way into every eating establishment still astounded her.

"All I needed to tell them was that I was the mother of one of the dears who helped protect the Power Plant, along with his friends!" Delia sing-songed, waving a hand as if it were nothing. "I just wanted all of you to eat comfortably after all of your hard work… And, because I made such a fuss, word got around that you were the same ones who took up the good fight, recently."

"In Saffron and outside Viridian," Dawn explained. "Having our names on the news helped."

"So… everyone knows…?" Ash trailed off. Poking through the gift basket, he found himself short for words. There were more 'Thank you' and 'Get well' cards than he could shake a stick at.

"Half of Cerulean at least," Misty giggled. "You wouldn't believe how everyone came together, once the news got out. My good city wanted to share their gratitude for all your poking around. Couldn't let a couple of heroic boneheads go unappreciated," she teased good-naturedly.

"So, this is… all for us." Ash felt his lip trembling, again. All for them. All of their grief and hard work was appreciated. Unable to help himself, Ash began to cry into the back of his wrist.

He'd gone over and over how hard being a hero could be. How painful it sometimes was. How unappreciated he often felt, throwing himself on the line. Not that he expected a reward or a parade, of course. They helped because it was the right thing to do. Because they wanted to.

As the tears racked through him, though, and his shoulders trembled, he realized that he never knew how good it felt to be acknowledged. For all of that good will to come back to you.

"Th-thank you, guys," he choked out. "Thank you, Mom… Thank you, everyone."

"Yeah, yeah. Save the heroic speeches." Ash felt a hand come down on his shoulder. It was Misty's. "Your voice is hoarse. I can tell you've given a hundred of them already, lately." The redhead winked. "Besides. We have our own to give."

"We…?" Ash echoed, blinking the tears out of his eyes. He felt another hand on his opposite.

It was Brock. His elder friend, smiling fondly. "More accurately, I think we owe you an apology, Ash." He coughed into his hand. "Misty, if you would…"

"Well, since I have to do everything around here," Misty feigned annoyance, sighing. "We do owe you an apology. For not giving you nearly enough credit, for everything you do."

"And for not trying hard enough to understand your troubles," Brock added.

"You guys…" Just as Ash had stopped the waterworks, they started again. Burying his sobs beneath his pride, he laughed, throwing an arm around his oldest friends. "...It looks like I'm about to cash in on a million 'I-told-you-so's!' So, get ready."

"One for each postcard?" Misty teased, picking up his cap by the brim to wag it at him.

"Aha-ha!" Brock laughed. "We really are proud of you. It's kind of surreal to say it… But, you've become a man before our very eyes."

"Well… if you've stuck around that long," Ash said, snagging back his cap to place upon his head backwards. "Then let me ask one more thing. I want you to watch me become Champion."

"I don't know, Ketchum… I think that's asking a little much," Misty sing-songed.

"Don't you think he's had enough grief?" Brock scolded. "Of course we'll be there. I don't have any conflicting plans, so staying at least through the Indigo League Conference should be no trouble!"

"Oh, fine." Misty conceded, sticking her tongue out while pulling down her eyelid. "Moreover, the League can talk to both of my fists if they have a problem with me attending. I'll be out of the Gym to watch my best friend win."

"And I will win. I'll be going all the way. Right, Peeks? Rosa?"

Peeks leapt from Delia's arms to scale Ash's back, climbing atop his hat. "No question about it!"

~It's like I told you. I'll see it through to the end with you,~ Rosa smiled, closing a paw into a fist.

"And, don't forget!" Dawn stumbled out of bed, walking over to pump a fist in the air. "You'll have no need to worry, because I'll be cheering for you, all the way!"

"I'd love nothing more," Ash laughed. "But hey, you'd better get better first, missy. Can't have you stumbling through the bleachers with a concussion."

"I'm doing just fine, Sir," Dawn huffed, with a puffed out cheek.

"If you say so, Ma'am."

"Oi…" Misty huffed, pulling back from Ash to give them their space. "You know they're better. Now they're flirting, again."

"And I couldn't be more proud!" Brock laughed, giving Ash a friendly punch in the arm. "If not a little envious."

Ash grinned. Before he could work up a retort, though, he was interrupted.

"Hey! Not to drag down the party…" Ritchie stepped in through the door, hands on his hips with a smirk on his lips. "But, I think you're forgetting someone."

"Pi-kah!" Sparky parroted from his shoulder with a grin.

"We made a promise, didn't we? That we'd have a proper battle at the League."

"Oh, you know it!" Ash smirked. "I'll face you, there. And this time, I'm winning!"

"Oh, that'll be darling! You two deserve a proper match," Delia cooed. "But first, Ash and Dawn have some recovery to do before the big day comes. Am I right, kids~?"

Ash and Dawn both hung their heads.

"Yes, Ma'am…"

"Yes, Mom…"

Peeks laughed, shaking his head. "All's well that ends well, I suppose."

Still sitting on the bedside, Rosemary absorbed the words of her dear old friend. She absorbed the merriment, and overwhelming relief, felt throughout the room. Her family and friends that, just so recently, were cast in gloom and fear and regret. Just so recently, they'd been broken.

She toyed with the ends of her red scarf with her paw, clutching them.

'This was the peace Rota fought so hard for, huh? The future that Aura promised us?'

She knew she could trust it, once more.

"The Hero of the Year Festival is going to be a touch different this year, isn't it…?"

"Indeed. His staff is gone… There's a new hero to carry his legacy, and he's among us. I have to admit, adjusting long standing traditions is troubling. Centuries, called into question…"

"You're as old-fashioned as ever, Lady Miriam." Queen Ilene giggled behind her hand. "We will handle the details in due time… But, tradition may just have to adjust accordingly. We're in a new age."

"With that, I cannot argue." The bespectacled older woman conceded with a hum. She adjusted her tiny glasses on the bridge of her nose. In the castle's foyer, she stood alongside her majesty, squinting up at a freshly-installed, larger than life frame on the wall. "You know, we'd already arranged for a painter to honor that change… But, it may have been for naught."

"We'll be sure to at least compensate them for their trouble," Ilene said. "You need not worry."

A portrait that had been blank was, wondrously, painted down to every stunning detail. One of the many ridges painting the landscape of northern Rota stood as the centerpiece, while colorful crystals imbued with Aura stood in the background.

The focus of the painting was Rota's new hero. A scrappy teenager cloaked in bold red, teal fingerless gloves with lime cuffs, a dark t-shirt, and jeans. Black, messy hair was pinned down by a backwards baseball cap. Kind, dark brown eyes matched a cheeky grin on the youth's face, with the corner of his mouth overlapped by a large bandage reaching from his jawline up his cheek. The hero hoisted Sir Aaron's legendary staff over his shoulder; not like a stern, steely-gazed hero, but more like a child who'd found a particularly cool stick out in their backyard that they couldn't help but show off. The staff itself was even partially out of view.

A Pikachu sat comfortably on his shoulder, with his jagged tail affectionately framing the teenager's shoulder, and an unmistakable glow in his beady eyes. A sure sign of friendship.

By the Aura Guardian's side was indeed a Lucario, as well. She wasn't poised for battle, stern and aggressive, but posed upright and proud with her paws crossed, as if smiling for a candid photo. Her ears fanned out in a friendly shape, but her wrist spikes were curved dangerously. Kind ruby eyes, and equally fierce features. She wore a bold red scarf around her neck.

It was a heavy contrast to the paintings of old; to the Sir Aaron that Rota venerated. But, an air of hopeful optimism and freshly-acquired wisdom cast its own brand of heroism.

"If we should trust Aura's will… The future is in good hands."

Well, that's the end of Convergence! And with it, a conclusion to the darkest hour of Another Road Repaved.

This is a story arc I'd been anticipating since the beginning of this rewrite, and I think I can say that I feel satisfied with it, and I hope our readers are, too. Ash and Peeks have settled their worst division ever, and Rosemary has a better understanding of her past. Anyone who was heartbroken over the ending to Lucario and the Mystery of Mew can take solace, knowing Lucario is back with Ash, in his own unique way!

Now, all that's left are Ash and Dawn's highest aspirations. With their troubles behind them, they can aim for the gold, together!

I'm afraid I've only laid the groundwork for the eighth book, so it'll be a little while before you all see the next entry. But in the meantime, I'd deeply appreciate hearing your thoughts on the story so far, and any speculations about the future! Thank you for making it through 95 chapters with us. Wishing all the best!